These quick exercises provide an opportunity for students to interact with the local community and to continue research of topics discussed throughout the chapter.

1. The Gray Panthers, organized in 1970 by Maggie Kuhn and five of her friends, is a national advocacy organization for older and retired adults. The Gray Panthers’ first goal was to combat ageism, but the group has also taken a stand on other important social issues: economic justice, medical care, education, and peace. Recent efforts have been directed toward policies ensuring affordable prescription drugs for seniors, children, cancer patients, and HIV patients. The Gray Panthers has local chapters in more than 20 states. Contact the chapter in your state for information about what activities are supported in your area.

2. The National Institute on Aging (NIA), part of the National Institutes of Health, leads the country’s scientific effort to understand the nature of aging and to extend the healthy, active years of life for Americans. Formed in 1974, the NIA provides leadership in aging research, training, health information dissemination, and other programs relevant to aging and older people. Its website includes resource materials on healthy aging, caregiving, medications, dietary supplements, and diseases.

3. The private, not-for-profit Alliance for Aging Research is the nation’s leading citizen advocacy organization for improving the health and independence of older Americans. Founded in 1986, the goal of the Alliance for Aging Research is to promote medical and behavioral research into the aging process. The organization also serves as an advocate of consumer health education and public policy. On its website, the Alliance for Aging Research includes health information about age-related conditions, diseases and issues.

4. LGBTQ seniors are more likely to live alone, are four times less likely to have adult children to care for them, and remain fearful of discrimination from health care and social service workers. Services and Advocacy for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Elders is a nonprofit organization based in New York City. The program focuses on the specific needs of LGBT elders, including establishing a network of caregiving services, support groups for seniors with HIV, and home visiting programs. Are similar programs available in your community?